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The player, who tends to ply his trade at right-back but is as equally adept in midfield, was expected to become an integral part of the first team squad at St Mary's.
He is known for his strong tackling, but is also a good distributor of the ball.
Baird was thrust into action for the FA Cup final as a tactical ploy, and played brilliantly despite Southampton going down to Arsenal. It was only his fourth appearance as a pro.
He has already been part of the full Northern Ireland squad, and would appear to have an excellent future.
His was surprisingly loaned to Walsall at the end of September 2003, making ten appearances. He then joined Watford in mid-March 2004 for whom he played eight times.
On his return he made only his fourth Southampton appearance of 2003/04 against Charlton in the last game of the season.
Chris Baird is also the lead singer and guitarist of the band Uncle Suave and his Ragtime Bitches, a Polka Thrash Experience. He lives in Keene, NH.